The proposed regeneration of east London’s Blackwall Reach is to go ahead after the culture minister decided not to list a housing estate at heart of the development zone.
Margaret Hodge has refused to recommend the listing of Robin Hood Gardens in Poplar, E14, as a building of special architectural significance.
National regeneration agency English Partnerships and Tower Hamlets council will now continue with developing an outline planning application for submission in spring next year.
The proposals include demolishing the 1960s estate and replacing it with 3,000 homes including 500 affordable homes, shops, community and recreation facilities and two-hectares of open space.
Steve Oakes, regional director, London and Thames Gateway, English Partnerships said: “We are very pleased we can go forward with the plans for the regeneration of Blackwall Reach and aim to deliver high-quality, sustainable urban regeneration in Tower Hamlets working in partnership with the Council and the local community.
“Looking ahead, English Partnerships has recently acquired the former St Matthias community centre site, within the Blackwall Reach regeneration area.
“This site will be the location of first phase of new development at Blackwall Reach, including the first replacement homes for residents wishing to remain in the area.
“This is obviously a key part of the jigsaw to get into place in order to go forward.”
